Snorkelling-Tour in Porto Cesareo with typical aperitif

Exploring the Coast from the Water: A Snorkeling and Aperitif Cruise in Porto Cesareo

Imagine gliding smoothly on a catamaran along the tranquil waters of Porto Cesareo, with the warm sun overhead and the gentle sea breeze in your hair. For around $58 per person, this 3 to 4-hour cruise offers a unique chance to see a quieter side of Italy’s Ionian coastline—away from crowded beaches and tourist throngs. Led by friendly guides from A Mare Salento, you’ll sail past historic towers, snorkel over Roman marble columns, and enjoy a local-style aperitif with wine and snacks.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the chance to snorkel in an underwater Roman port, where ancient marble columns still rest on the seabed—a true slice of history beneath the waves. Second, the gourmet aperitif onboard, featuring local wines and regional delicacies, turns a straightforward boat trip into a culinary highlight. The only consideration? Some travelers note that there’s no reef or vibrant coral to marvel at, which might disappoint those seeking colorful underwater reefs.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love a relaxed pace, interesting coastal sights, and genuine local flavors. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of light adventure and scenic beauty will find it particularly appealing. If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized boat trip with authentic touches, this cruise is a fine choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Coastal Views: Sail past Isola Grande, Torre della Chianca, and Torre Lapillo, with plenty of photo-worthy scenery.
• Historical Snorkeling: Swim over an underwater Roman port with ancient marble columns still visible beneath the surface.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Plenty of space on the boat to lounge, sunbathe, or find shade.
• Local Flavors: Enjoy a typical aperitif with regional wines and snacks, adding a local touch to the day.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages; children often enjoy the boat and swimming stops.
• Limited Reef: No vibrant reefs or coral, so if you’re looking for colorful underwater life, this may not meet expectations.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins at the Porto Cesareo Slipway, where the A Mare Salento catamaran awaits. The tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity, especially if you want to explore multiple spots without feeling rushed. The boat accommodates up to 36 travelers, which means you’ll likely enjoy a friendly, intimate atmosphere yet still have space to relax.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Isola Grande (Isola dei Conigli)

As the boat departs, we immediately head toward Isola Grande, a lush island once inhabited by hundreds of wild rabbits. Today, it’s undergoing a wildlife restocking program, but what we love about this part is the wild, untouched feel of the island—an authentic taste of nature. The island’s dense pines and acacias provide excellent photo opportunities, and the boat circumnavigates it so everyone gets a view.

Second Stop: Torre Chianca

Next, we sail toward Torre della Chianca, a fortress dating back to 1570, sitting just in front of a small island. Here, the highlight is the underwater Roman port—an area where a sunken ship left behind imposing marble columns at about 4.5 meters depth. This gives snorkelers a chance to get close to history, with clear waters revealing remnants of ancient marble, including cipollino marble columns. It’s a genuinely unusual experience to swim above a submerged relic of Roman maritime activity.

Third Stop: Torre Lapillo

Further north, the boat approaches Torre Lapillo, known for its stunning beaches and clear waters. This stop offers some of the best snorkeling, with springs that bubble up from reef bases, creating excellent underwater scenery. One of the poignant sights here is the Madonna dei Naviganti statue resting on the seabed—dedicated to those lost at sea and a reminder of the region’s maritime heritage. The reviews mention that some travelers enjoyed snorkeling here, noting the play of colors and underwater landscape, although the absence of reefs might limit marine diversity.

Final Stop: Porto Cesareo Marine Protected Area

Back near Porto Cesareo, the boat anchors in a tranquil inlet—perfect for relaxing with an aperitif. The crew serves local wines, regional snacks, and a variety of drinks, turning the cruise into a leisurely social event. The waters here are especially transparent, offering a calm place for a swim before heading back to port.

What You’ll Love About the Experience

The guides and crew have garnered praise for their friendliness and attentiveness, making the trip welcoming for all. Multiple reviewers highlighted the helpfulness of the staff, especially noting the printed English guides—valuable for non-Italian speakers. The snorkeling stops are well-timed and in beautiful, peaceful spots, giving you enough time to enjoy the water without feeling rushed.

The aperitif is a genuine highlight—local wines paired with regional delicacies—adding a tasteful, authentic touch to the day. Several travelers mentioned the generous portions and quality of the food, which often feels more like a full lunch than a simple snack, making the price feel more justified.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

While the tour is highly praised, some reviews pointed out a few minor downsides. A common comment is that there are no reefs or colorful coral, which might disappoint snorkeling enthusiasts expecting vibrant marine life. Also, one reviewer noted the lack of a soft water shower on board, which could be a drawback after swimming in saltwater.

Language barriers sometimes surface, with a few travelers mentioning that some information is in Italian, although the company provides written guides in English. This isn’t a major issue but worth noting if you prefer fully translated commentary.

Who Should Opt for This Experience?

This cruise is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water with some history and good regional food thrown in. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a gentle adventure with plenty of swimming and lounging opportunities. Travelers who value authentic regional flavors and easygoing atmospheres will appreciate the local wines and snacks onboard.

If you prefer vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life, you might be a bit underwhelmed, but for those who enjoy historical sights and peaceful waters, this tour ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, if your idea of a day on the coast involves sailing past quiet coves, snorkeling over ancient relics, and enjoying regional delicacies in a friendly environment. The value for money is quite good, especially considering the regional wines, snacks, and the chance to see Roman marble columns underwater—all packed into a manageable half-day.

This experience suits travelers who prioritize a laid-back cruise with cultural touches over high-adrenaline activities or reef diving. It’s perfect if you want to see lesser-known coastal spots, avoid crowded beaches, and feel immersed in local flavors and history.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a comfortable half-day activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Porto Cesareo Slipway and returns to the same point after the trip.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers sailing, snorkeling stops, guided commentary (via written English guides), and the aperitif with local wines and snacks.

Can children participate?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, since it involves swimming, relaxing on the boat, and light snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks are available for snorkeling; however, the reviews mention there are no snorkels included, so consider bringing your own if you prefer.

Are there any restrictions for non-Italian speakers?
Most reviews indicate that written guides are available in English, though some verbal commentary may be in Italian. The overall experience remains accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, towel, water shoes if desired, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The boat doesn’t have showers, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience relies on good weather. If canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this Snorkelling Tour in Porto Cesareo offers a charming blend of scenic sailing, historical discovery, and regional indulgence. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a taste of authentic local coastal life without the crowds or the fuss. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a pleasant day on the sea, this cruise provides a memorable and genuine experience worth considering.